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English literature and creative writing

We’re all natural storytellers, and studying English literature and creative writing offers a way into the human imagination and the key to creative expression.

What's on this page?

Studying English literature and creative writing engrosses you in literary masterpieces and builds essential skills that are sought after in the professional world. It encourages critical thinking, analytical skills, and effective communication, creating storytellers and perceptive interpreters of cultural differences.

The comprehensive understanding of language, narrative structures, and different genres equips graduates for a variety of career paths. Whether looking at roles in publishing, journalism, content creation, marketing, or education, graduates will have the ability to craft compelling narratives and adapt to different communication styles.

Beyond traditional careers, the creative and analytical skills gained prepare you for roles in digital media, advertising, and even entrepreneurship, where the power of persuasive storytelling is essential. 

The impact you could make
  • Be a social commentator, addressing issues such as social justice, inequality, and human rights.
  • Bring fresh perspectives to the world by inspiring innovative solutions and encouraging others to think creatively.
  • Share stories and build connections that contribute to the overall wellbeing of society.
What you could study
  • Literature in theory
  • Modern world literatures
  • Creative thinking
  • Shakespeare
  • American poetry
  • Modes of reading
  • Contemporary fiction

Study options

Options to study in this field include:

Chat to a current English literature and creative writing student

Chat to a current English literature and creative writing student using UniBuddy.

Some conversation starters for you:

  1. Ask which modules they really enjoyed.
  2. Find out how easy it was for them to make friends on their course.
  3. Do they have any tips on your personal statement?
  4. Did they do anything to prep for uni before they went?
  5. Are there books, podcasts or YouTube channels they would recommend?

Chat to students powered by Unibuddy

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  • Grace

    University of Lincoln
    English and Creative Writing - BA (Hons)
    Hi! I’m Grace, a 1st Year English and Creative Writing student! If I’m not trying to get this weeks reading complete, I’m probably sleeping. Currently trying to figure out my career plans, and what my next short story is going to be!

  • David

    Bangor University
    English Language
    Hello! I'm Dave a 33 year old mature student originally from Maidstone in Kent. I previously worked in the corporate world for 10 years and decided to quit my job and follow my dream which is to travel the world and teach English. I am a second year student studying English Language for TEFL. I am passionate about languages though I dont speak any other language fluently I am learning Japanese, Chinese (Mandarin) Spanish, Italian and Korean. I am very happy to answer any questions about life at Bangor, the application process, the English language/Linguistics course and life as a mature student both in applying for university and being a mature student here at Bangor. I look forward to chatting with you :)

  • Maisey

    University of Sussex
    English Language and Linguistics BA (Hons)
    I came from a small town to Brighton, I felt at home in Sussex due to the South Downs resembling the countryside that surrounds me at home. After my time at Sussex is finished, Brighton seems like a familiar place for me to live and therefore hopefully start a career in Publishing.

  • Amanda

    University of Lincoln
    English and Journalism - BA (Hons)
    Hi, I am a second year student who have experienced taking a gap year after completing A-levels in sixth form. I then took a local college course as I wanted to go into a degree programme where my A-levels wouldn't apply (STEM A-levels wouldn't do for an English and Journalism degree ) and decided the college course would work out cheaper than a foundation course at uni. So that took 2 years. If you are a mature student and worried about adjusting, I can reassure you that the first year is all about making sure everyone is on the same page. I am also here if you have any issues with roommates as I had to relocate so understand how it can affect your well-being. I can also relate if you come from a bigger city and find it an adjustment to get used to being a student in a smaller space that lacks the usual diversity from big places. Otherwise, I like reading, running, and sewing but feel free to reach out for a chat about nothing and everything under the sun :)

  • Aprajita

    University of East Anglia UEA
    Literature and Creative Writing
    I'm from Hyderabad, which is a metropolitan city in the south of India. Hyderabad has an incredibly rich and diverse literary history, and growing up there meant that I was inevitably drawn into art and literature. Writing has always been my passion- I can't remember a time when I didn't make up stories in my head! I love literature that's accessible yet elegant, simple stories done beautifully with care. I've spent the last three years at UEA on the English Literature with Creative Writing course, and fallen in love with both Norwich and UEA. There's a real camaraderie to be found among students and staff here, and despite being thousands of miles from India I've begun to feel at home here in Norwich. UEA is full of brilliant, passionate people who support each other and aim to effect real change in the world- being here has not only exposed me to different cultures and experiences, but also helped to improve my craft and expand my perspective of the world. UEA's an amazing place for students and writers to be, and I look forward to speaking to you about both Norwich and the University!

  • Sadiyah

    Coventry University
    English Literature BA (Hons)
    Hi I’m Sadiyah and I am a second year English Literature student with a passion for reading and writing. I am hoping to pursue a career in journalism after my degree while continuing with my hobbies of cooking and theatre as well as hanging out with my friends :)

  • Bunni

    Staffordshire University
    English, Creative Writing and Philosophy
    My name is Bunni and I’m a Student Ambassador for Staffordshire University here to talk to you about English and life at Staffs. Drop me a message and I’ll get back to you ASAP!

  • Izzi

    Nottingham Trent University
    English, Linguistics and Creative Writing
    Hi, I'm Izzi. I'm a second-year Creative Writing student at NTU who spent several years in an online school before heading onto campus. I'm usually spotted tucked in a quiet corner with my laptop working on my portfolio.

  • Becka

    Keele University
    English & Creative Writing
    Hey, I'm Becka! 🌷 I recently graduated from Keele with a degree in English Literature and Creative Writing and am now an MA Creative Writing student here. I love all things art, from writing to drawing to fashion and self-expression. I also spend a lot of time playing video games, eating food and taking pictures of my cat (my phone storage is nearly full). I've taken electives in philosophy, psychology, media studies and sociology, and live off-campus. In the future I hope to live in a remote forest treehouse (with a good wi-fi signal). Feel free to ask me any questions about uni! 🦋

  • Mand

    University of Lincoln
    Creative Writing - BA (Hons)
    Hello! Enrolling to study a degree in my 50's has been an incredible experience and confidence boost. I have previously worked in Support roles particularly in Palliative Care & Mental Health, so focusing on something for myself has proved to be invaluable. I hope to progress to studying for a MA with a focus on Poetry.

  • Emily

    University of Lincoln
    Creative Writing - BA (Hons)
    Hi! I'm Emily and I'm a first year creative writing student! Im always happy to help, as I'm not only a Unibuddy Ambassador, but also a Student Ambassador. I really enjoy my course, so any questions about that and you'll be in the right hands. :) I love indie music, art and playing minecraft. I'm glad to be able to help you out! :D

  • Milena

    University of Suffolk
    MA Creative and Critical Writing
    Recent graduate from a Master’s in Public Relations and Communications as well as a professor of French language and literature with English as a minor and current Creative Writing postgraduate student. I am very motivated to branch out into other industries, mostly creative ones, such as arts and media production.

  • Johanna

    Brunel University London
    Theatre and Creative Writing
    Hello! I am an undergraduate student studying Theatre and Creative Writing. When I'm not working hard on my studies you can find me reading, songwriting, hiking in the mountains, or swimming in the ocean. :) I'm really enjoying the course so far and am happy to answer any questions you may have!

  • Hollie

    University of Plymouth
    BA (Hons) English
    I am currently studying English literature as I love the aspect of exploring ideas through literature its a good way to access political and legal ideas in a safe space, but looking forward I would love to do my masters in Law and eventually become a solicitor and then possibly a judge

  • Lucy

    University of Lincoln
    Drama and English - BA (Hons)
    I am an aspiring teacher, enthusiast for literature, performing arts, food and cats! My favourite area of literature is modernist poetry and contemporary playwriting. I really hope so speak to you soon!

Start your search now

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Example module
“I love studying feminist and gothic literature. I have also loved looking into the works of Shakespeare.”
Second year English literature student, Swansea University
Example assignment
“I enjoy getting to write creative pieces for creative writing modules, because even if there's little variety in lecture content and reading, I can write whatever I want.”
Second year creative writing and history student, University of Chichester

Second year English literature and creative writing student, University of Lincoln

I love the freedom of expression, I love the dual opposition between reading and writing and how closely related they are and how they work in conjunction with one another. I love how you cannot have one with the other; to read is to write and to write is to read.
77% of students
studying English literature and creative writing would recommend the subject to others

Subjects it's useful to have studied first

Some English literature and creative writing courses or apprenticeships will have requirements for previous qualifications in certain subjects. Entry requirements vary, so always check with the provider.
Humanities
History
Geography
Drama
Hard skills you'll develop
  • Ability to critically analyse and interpret literary texts
  • Close reading skills
  • Development of characters, plot structures and dialogue
  • Analyse arguments and evaluate evidence
Soft skills you'll develop
  • Creativity
  • Critical thinking
  • Written communication
  • Storytelling

Careers: Where it can take you

Find out more about your career prospects from studying English literature and creative writing. The following information is based on a typical author, writer or translator role.
Available jobs
27,818 vacancies in the past year
1.53% growth over next eight years
Average salary
£28,873
Up to £58,693

Career options

Media, publishing and information services

Journalist, newspaper and periodical editors 

Authors, writers and translators 

Marketing and sales

Advertising account managers 

Public relations professionals

Administration and office work

Customer service managers and supervisors

Human resources and industrial relations officers

Business management

Business and related research professionals

Research and development managers

What is a… story consultant?

Story consultants are often the ones weaving magic behind the scenes in TV and film. They collaborate closely with filmmakers and producers, reading scripts and narratives to make them better. Drawing on their knowledge of storytelling techniques and genre dynamics, they enhance plot structure and character development. Whether working on a gripping crime thriller or a heartwarming family drama, they craft compelling stories that resonate with audiences. 
Find your ideal career
Take our careers quiz to find your ideal job matched to your personality type.

Getting in: Entry requirements

Find out more about what you'll need to study English literature and creative writing at university or as an apprenticeship.

Average requirements for undergraduate degrees

Entry requirements differ between university and course, but this should give you a guide to what is usually expected from English literature and creative writing applicants.

A levels
BBB – CCC
Scottish Highers
AAABB
Vocational
BTEC DDM – MMM

The expert view

Toni Morrison, novelist (1931 – 2019)
If there's a book that you want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it.

Other subjects you may be interested in

Considering an apprenticeship?

Applying for an apprenticeship is just like applying for a normal job. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Deadline

    Apprenticeships don't follow the same deadlines as applying to uni, the deadline is down to the employer.

  2. Where to apply

    You apply directly through the employer.

  3. No limits

    You're not restricted to one apprenticeship application; you can do as many as you like.

  4. Apply to university and apprenticeships

    There's nothing stopping you applying to university through UCAS, while also applying for apprenticeship vacancies.

  5. Find out more

    Read our guide to creative and design apprenticeships.
Apprenticeship vacancies
Check out live apprenticeship vacancies.

Explore further

Go deeper into topics around English literature and creative writing with the following:

  1. Watch film adaptations

    If your favourite book has been turned into a film watch it to see how the words and script have been adapted to fit the new medium. 

  2. TED Talks

    A playlist of talks and articles exploring many topics around literature and writing.

  3. Get inspired

    Visit the National Centre for Writing website for useful advice, practical tips, and short writing exercises.

Application advice

Whether it's personal statement tips or what to write in a cover letter for an apprenticeship application, our advice will help you get ahead in your English literature and creative writing journey.
  • Don’t be afraid to shout about your love for literature by sharing specific books, authors, or literary movements that have inspired and influenced you.
  • Highlight any experiences you have in creative writing. Mention workshops, writing groups, or personal projects that showcase your dedication to improving your craft. Share insights into your writing process and the genres or styles you’re drawn to.
  • Share the breadth of your reading habits by mentioning a diverse range of genres, cultures, and time periods.
  • Prove your strong communication skills, both written and verbal. This is crucial for success in both academic writing and creative expression.
  • Have you explored your creativity outside of writing? Maybe you’ve acted in a play or experimented with visual arts.
Personal statement guide
We asked admissions tutors to share their advice for writing a strong and engaging English personal statement. Here's what they told us.

Personal statement builder

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